5 Best Pellet gun for Birds

This Gamo .177 Caliber Breakbarrel Air Rifle is a top contender. Built with both beginners and seasoned shooters in mind, this rifle offers a great balance of power, precision, and portability—making it a go-to choice for pest control and small game hunting.

At the heart of its performance is a spring piston breakbarrel powerplant, delivering pellets at up to 1,200 feet per second (FPS) with alloy ammunition, and up to 1,000 FPS with lead. This level of velocity makes it more than capable of ethically and humanely taking down birds and small pests at moderate distances.

The rifle is equipped with a 4×32 scope and mount, enhancing long-range accuracy, while fiber optic front and adjustable rear sights give you the flexibility to shoot accurately right out of the box—whether you prefer optics or iron sights. The 2-stage adjustable Smooth Action Trigger (SAT) allows for a crisp, clean break, which is especially important for consistent shot placement when dealing with small, fast-moving targets.

Its synthetic thumbhole stock not only looks sleek but also improves handling and stability during shooting. Weighing just 5.28 lbs, it’s ideal for extended sessions in the field without causing fatigue. The overall length of 46 inches provides a comfortable balance between control and range, while the 3.79 lb trigger pull offers a smooth shooting experience without being too light for safety.

Specifications

• Caliber: .177

• Velocity: Up to 1200 FPS (alloy), 1000 FPS (lead)

• Powerplant: Breakbarrel Spring Piston

• Shot Type: Single-shot

• Scope: 4×32 scope and mount included

• Trigger: 2-stage adjustable SAT (Smooth Action Trigger)

• Sights: Fiber optic front & rear (rear adjustable for windage and elevation)

• Stock: Synthetic thumbhole design

• Weight: 5.28 lbs

• Trigger Pull: 3.79 lbs

• Overall Length: 46 inches

 Pros

• High velocity ensures strong knockdown power for small birds and pests.

• Lightweight and ergonomic for easy field use and longer shooting sessions.

• Dual sighting options: scope and fiber optic sights offer flexibility.

• Smooth Action Trigger (SAT) enhances accuracy with a clean trigger break.

• Durable synthetic stock withstands harsh outdoor conditions.

• Ideal for beginners or plinkers wanting a balance of power and simplicity.

 Cons

• Spring piston recoil may take time to master for new shooters.

3.Hatsan 95 .177 Caliber Breakbarrel Air Rifle

The first thing you’ll notice is the genuine Turkish walnut stock, finely crafted and shaped with an ambidextrous cheek rest, offering a comfortable fit for both right- and left-handed shooters. This beautifully finished wood stock gives the rifle a premium, traditional look rarely found in its price range. Beneath the stock, however, is a highly capable modern air rifle powered by a spring piston breakbarrel system, offering single-shot operation for reliable and accurate follow-up shots.

Performance-wise, the Hatsan 95 delivers impressive numbers. It achieves velocities of up to 1,300 FPS with alloy pellets and 1,100 FPS with lead pellets, making it more than powerful enough for clean kills on birds and small pests. With a maximum muzzle energy of 20 FPE, it ensures deep penetration and effective knockdown power, especially when paired with the right pellet type.

The rifle is equipped with a precision-rifled German steel barrel that enhances long-range accuracy. Hatsan’s Quattro Trigger, a fully adjustable 2-stage match-grade trigger, allows you to fine-tune your pull for the most responsive shooting experience. To round out the package, it includes a 3-9x32mm Optima scope and rings, mounted to an 11mm dovetail scope rail, ensuring you’re ready to go straight out of the box.

 Specifications

• Caliber: .177

• Action: Breakbarrel, Single-shot

• Powerplant: Spring Piston

• Trigger: Quattro Trigger – 2-stage fully adjustable match trigger

• Stock: Genuine Turkish walnut, ambidextrous

• Barrel: Precision rifled German steel

• Scope: 3-9×32 Optima scope & rings

• Scope Mount: 11mm dovetail receiver

• Max Velocity: Up to 1300 FPS (lead-free), 1100 FPS (lead)

• Max Muzzle Energy: Up to 20 FPE

• Weight: Approx. 7.8 lbs (without scope)

Pros

• Excellent power output suitable for birds and small game.

• High-quality walnut stock offers durability and a premium look.

• Match-grade Quattro trigger provides a crisp, adjustable pull for better accuracy.

• German steel rifled barrel ensures precise and consistent shot placement.

• Included scope makes the rifle field-ready right out of the box.

• Ambidextrous design accommodates both left- and right-handed users.

Cons

• Slightly heavier than synthetic models—may be tiring over long treks.

4.Crosman Shockwave

The Crosman Shockwave .177 Caliber Breakbarrel Air Rifle delivers on all fronts. Engineered for both beginners and experienced shooters, this spring-piston-powered rifle combines solid craftsmanship with smart features designed to enhance field performance.

At the core of its performance is a spring-piston breakbarrel system, capable of launching pellets at up to 1250 feet per second (FPS). This high velocity ensures excellent knockdown power on small game and birds, especially when paired with lightweight alloy pellets. Whether you’re aiming at a perched starling or a ground-dwelling pest, the Shockwave gives you the power to make ethical, effective shots.

The rifle comes ready for action with a 4×32 scope and mount, allowing for more precise aiming at longer distances. For closer targets or backup, the steel barrel—wrapped in a fluted polymer jacket—enhances durability while minimizing barrel weight, making the gun easier to handle during extended use.

The synthetic Monte Carlo stock is designed for comfort and stability, featuring dual raised cheekpieces for both left- and right-handed shooters. This thoughtful design enhances proper eye alignment with the included scope, boosting accuracy and user comfort. A manual safety provides control and confidence, while the anti-beartrap mechanism ensures safe operation during cocking.

 Specifications

• Caliber: .177

• Velocity: Up to 1250 FPS (with alloy pellets)

• Powerplant: Spring-piston

• Barrel: Steel barrel with fluted polymer jacket

• Stock: Synthetic Monte Carlo with dual raised cheekpieces

• Sights: Includes 4×32 scope & mount

• Safety: Manual safety and anti-beartrap mechanism

• Action: Single-shot, breakbarrel

 Pros

• High velocity makes it effective for pest birds and small game.

• Lightweight yet durable design for extended use in the field.

• Comfortable Monte Carlo stock enhances cheek weld and scope alignment.

• Ambidextrous-friendly stock design with dual raised cheekpieces.

• Anti-beartrap safety feature adds peace of mind during cocking.

• Affordable, complete kit with scope included.

 Cons

• Spring recoil may require practice for optimal accuracy.

4. Benjamin .177-caliber PCP-powered air rifle

the Benjamin .177-caliber PCP-powered air rifle stands out as one of the best choices for bird hunting and small game control. Designed for serious shooters and seasoned outdoorsmen, this pre-charged pneumatic rifle combines modern engineering with rugged usability—delivering match-grade performance at a reasonable price point.

At the heart of the rifle is its PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) power system, capable of pushing pellets up to 1,100 feet per second (FPS) with 21 foot-pounds of energy (FPE). This ensures clean, humane kills on pest birds and small game alike. With a 3000 PSI fill capacity, the rifle can deliver up to 30 effective shots per fill, making it practical for extended shooting sessions without constant recharging. It also features a 10-shot rotary magazine for faster follow-ups and a bolt-action single-shot option for maximum control.

The rifle is fitted with a rifled steel barrel, fully shrouded and integrated with sound suppression, which significantly reduces report noise—perfect for stealthy pest control or backyard shooting. The balanced all-weather synthetic stock is designed for field durability and comfort, featuring an adjustable raised comb and a reversible bolt handle, making it adaptable for both left- and right-handed shooters.

This Benjamin air rifle isn’t just about hunting. Its precision and user-friendly features also make it ideal for target shooting and skill development, allowing new and experienced shooters alike to improve their aim with a reliable, repeatable platform.

 Specifications

• Caliber: .177

• Power Source: PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic)

• Velocity: Up to 1100 FPS

• Energy: Up to 21 FPE

• Shots per Fill: Up to 30 at 3000 PSI

• Action: Bolt-action, single-shot with 10-shot rotary magazine

• Barrel: Rifled steel, shrouded, with integrated sound suppression

• Stock: All-weather synthetic with adjustable comb and reversible bolt

• Magazine: 10-shot rotary

• Ideal Use: Small game hunting, pest control, target shooting

 Pros

• High-powered PCP system provides consistent accuracy and velocity

• Integrated sound suppression makes it backyard- and field-friendly

• 30 shots per fill is generous for a .177-caliber PCP platform

• Ambidextrous-friendly stock with adjustable comb and bolt

• 10-shot magazine allows for fast follow-up shots

• Rifled barrel delivers tight grouping and precision at range

• Ideal for both hunting and target practice

 Cons

• Requires a high-pressure air source (pump or compressor not included)

5.Gamo Wildcat Whisper air Rifle

the Gamo WildCat Whisper is a standout performer. This air rifle is designed for hunters and backyard shooters who prioritize low noise levels, high accuracy, and ease of use. With its advanced Whisper noise-suppressing technology, lightweight build, and reliable IGT gas piston system, it’s an ideal tool for bird control, plinking, and small game hunting.

At the core of its performance is Gamo’s Inert Gas Technology (IGT), which replaces the traditional spring with a gas piston. This results in smoother cocking, less vibration, and greater accuracy. It also boosts the rifle’s power, achieving up to 1300 FPS in .177 caliber—ideal for clean and humane bird shots. The consistency provided by the IGT system ensures reliable terminal performance with every trigger pull.

The rifle is also equipped with Gamo’s patented Whisper noise dampening technology. As the pellet travels through multiple internal chambers, it compresses and redirects noise, dramatically reducing the report—making this air rifle a perfect choice for use in neighborhoods or areas where quiet shooting is essential.

The synthetic all-weather ambidextrous stock is built for real-world use. Made from glass-filled nylon—the same material used in premium European automotive parts—it’s lightweight, tough, and comfortable. With a weight of just 5.64 pounds, this rifle is easy to carry and maneuver, whether you’re patrolling your backyard or trekking through wooded terrain.

Completing the package is a GAMO 4×32 shockproof scope, which enhances long-range accuracy. Whether you’re zeroing in on birds at 30 yards or punching tight groups at the range, this scope helps make each shot count.

Specifications

• Caliber: .177

• Velocity: Up to 1300 FPS (with alloy pellets)

• Powerplant: IGT (Inert Gas Piston)

• Barrel: Rifled steel barrel with polymer jacket

• Noise Dampening: Whisper noise suppression system

• Scope: GAMO 4x32mm scope included

• Stock: All-weather synthetic ambidextrous design

• Weight: 5.64 lbs

• Made in: Spain

 Pros

• Quiet shooting thanks to Whisper noise suppressor—ideal for backyard and urban use

• High velocity and power suitable for clean bird kills and small game

• IGT gas piston ensures less vibration and more consistent accuracy than spring rifles

• Lightweight and well-balanced—easy to carry for extended periods

• Durable ambidextrous stock built for all weather and real-world use

• Included 4×32 scope provides clear targeting out of the box

• Made in Spain with strong quality control and reputation

Cons

• Single-shot breakbarrel design may be slow for quick follow-up shots

Also read;5 Best PCP Air Rifle for Hunting Varmints

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Pellet Gun for Birds

1. Caliber (.177 vs. .22)

• .177 caliber is ideal for birds due to higher velocity and flatter trajectory—great for small, fast targets.

• .22 caliber provides more impact energy but with a slower speed; more suitable for slightly larger pests.

2. Velocity & Power (FPS & FPE)

• Look for pellet guns with at least 1,000 FPS (feet per second) velocity.

• Around 15–20 FPE (foot-pounds of energy) is optimal for clean bird kills without overpenetration.

3. Powerplant Type

• PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic): Best for consistency, accuracy, and quiet operation—ideal for serious shooters.

• Spring-piston or Gas-piston: More affordable and portable; no need for external charging equipment.

4. Accuracy & Barrel Quality

• A rifled steel barrel ensures better pellet stability and shot precision.

• Look for features like shrouded barrels or German steel rifling for enhanced accuracy.

5. Noise Level / Sound Suppression

• Birds are skittish; a quiet pellet gun is crucial.

• Choose rifles with integrated suppressors or shrouded barrels to reduce sound and avoid spooking flocks.

6. Weight and Ergonomics

• Lightweight models (under 7 lbs) are easier to carry for long periods.

• Consider a synthetic or thumbhole stock with a good cheek weld for stable aiming.

7. Magazine Capacity & Reloading

• Multi-shot rotary magazines allow quicker follow-up shots.

• Single-shot designs offer better control but are slower; choose based on your shooting style and skill.

8. Scope Compatibility & Sighting

• Birds are small targets—optical clarity matters.

• Choose a rifle with an 11mm or Picatinny rail, and preferably an included scope or fiber optic iron sights.